Charcuterie Boards Gone Wild: From Breakfast to Dessert, Anything Goes
Charcuterie boards, traditionally consisting of a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, have become the go-to entertaining option. However, in recent years, this concept has evolved to include a variety of unique and creative options. In this article, we'll explore the trend of charcuterie boards gone wild.
The Basics
Before we dive into the creative ideas, let's review the basics of a classic charcuterie board. Traditional options include:
- Cured meats: such as prosciutto, salami, or other sliced deli meats
- Cheeses: such as Brie, cheddar, or Gouda
- Accompaniments: such as crackers, bread, olives, nuts, and fruit
Breakfast Boards
The first wild trend in charcuterie boards is breakfast boards. Think of a traditional charcuterie board, but with breakfast foods. Some popular options for breakfast boards include:
- Bagels and cream cheese
- Fresh fruit and berries
- Cured salmon or lox
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Assorted pastries and breads
Dessert Boards
Who says charcuterie boards are only for savory foods? Dessert boards are a fun way to add variety and sweetness to your next gathering. Some popular dessert board options include:
- Assorted chocolates and candies
- Fresh fruit and berries
- Cookies and macarons
- Cake pops and mini cupcakes
- Assorted dessert sauces and spreads
Themed Boards
Another way to get creative with your charcuterie board is by creating one with a specific theme. Some popular themes that have emerged include:
- Italian board: with an emphasis on Italian meats, cheeses, and breads
- Taco board: featuring different types of tacos, salsas, and guacamole
- Italian soda board: with a variety of Italian sodas and mixes
- Holiday-themed board: designed around a specific holiday, such as Halloween or Christmas
Conclusion
Charcuterie boards offer a creative and customizable entertaining option that can please any palate. The traditional board has evolved to include breakfast and dessert options, as well as themed boards to fit any gathering. The possibilities are endless with charcuterie, and we can't wait to see what other wild boards emerge in the future.
